Tuesday, August 25, 2009

This guest post is a list of wisdom offered by singer/songwriter/music biz guru Nancy Moran. I wholeheartedly agree that if we practice and act on the following affirmations, we would be miles ahead of most, in fact, there is no telling what will be possible. So here goes... and THANK YOU, NANCY!

AffirmationsFor The Professional Musician And SongwriterBy Nancy Moran

I present myself in a positive light and display a professional image with everything that I do.

I respect people’s time by being organized, pleasant, and concise.

Despite anyone else’s disposition, I am likable, friendly, courteous, polite and easy to work with at all times! I treat everyone—regardless of title—professionally.

I treat my music and/or songwriting as a career, even if I’m only doing it part-time for now. I am not in this for a one-time “quick hit.”

I take my music and/or songwriting seriously and treat it as a successful business operation.

I constantly hone not only my music and/or songwriting skills but also my business skills – such as communication, negotiation, and sales skills.

I invest in my own career by making demos, attending workshops, going to Nashville (or other music centers), and buying books, audio, software, etc. to help me advance and grow.

My oral and written communication skills are impeccable! I treat each and every conversation, e-mail, and letter in a business-like manner.

I understand all of the various parts of the music business, even if I am not working in all areas right now. I know how they interrelate so that I can speak intelligently about them.

I stay informed of current music industry affairs through the Internet and various trade publications. I am familiar with the major players in a variety of areas.

I am confident of my abilities, yet remain humble in my approach with people. I let my music and my songs speak for themselves.

I am passionate and enthusiastic, yet careful not to appear overly eager or desperate.

I am flexible and open to suggestions for improvement, new ideas, and feedback.

I listen more than I talk.

I always use my common sense!

I don’t make “contacts.” I build lasting relationships that are mutually beneficial.

I am tremendously appreciative of all who help me in pursuing my dream. While I always express my appreciation verbally, I also show my appreciation through thank-you notes and other small tokens (where appropriate)

5 Comments
:

Judy, all of these are great, but, the one that could have a whole sermon dedicated to it is No 19. I am always handed cards from folks that I never have another seconds contact with ever again. I am thinking, "Why did you hand me the card in the first place"? The music business, particularly in Nashville, is built upon friendships, real friends. I don't think this can be stressed enough. Thanks again for taking the time and putting all of the work in that you do.

You are right on, PJ... that's one of my favorites, too. Actually, I think all business is getting a bit more "personal" as in, really knowing each other at more than a superficial level. The music biz in particular. We MUST know who we can trust, and we MUST be trustable to others. Getting to know each other is no longer an option.

Judy, this is fantastic. I have been a professional singer for over 30 years and I keep getting called back because I follow all of these rules. This is a very valuable tool for anyone who wants to get gigs, keep working and getting called back in the music industry. Thanks for posting it. It's all great advise!

Hi Judy! I accidentally came upon this old post of yours today while searching for other music-related affirmations and found it pretty funny and ironic. This list was actually created by ME for a keynote that I did for NSAI's Spring Symposium back in...hmm...maybe 2005? I'm not really sure. I'd have to look it up. Anyway...it was called The Professional Songwriter's Code of Conduct. And the speech was actually based off of an article I wrote for American Songwriter magazine before that! I'm super glad that you and your friend Ron enjoyed the list. And glad I stumbled across it. :-) Hope you're doing well Judy! Musically, Nancy

Nancy... thank you so much, so very glad I know who wrote it now!! Linking to ya... great stuff here; you are a terrific resource! Anyone reading this... please check out Nancy's services at http://azaleamusic.com/